The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is reportedly set to vote on regulations that would pave the way for all-digital AM broadcasts.
In a blog posting earlier this month on the FCC’s website, FCC Chair Ajit Pai said that the Commission will soon vote on a Report and Order that would give AM broadcasters the option of converting to all-digital operations. Current regulations authorize broadcasts using only analog signals or hybrid signals that combine both analog and digital transmissions.
According to Pai, analog signals are increasingly subject to interference from electronic devices, and fewer than 250 AM stations have adopted hybrid operations. Allowing all-digital broadcasts, says Pai, would offer listeners a higher quality audio experience over a greater geographic area, and enable AM operators to remain competitive in the broadcast market.
What does this do to the installed base of AM receivers such as the one in your car?
We need to maintain the ability to fall backwards onto simpler technology in case of emergency or if everything goes sideways. The ability to send and receive analog AM signals should be maintained even if most chose not to.